News-Telegram: State News

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — There's not likely to be cake-cutting this time, but conservatives who oppose same-sex marriage in Texas are staging a Capitol steps rally with outspoken gay rights opponent Roy Moore.

LYNCHBURG, Va. (AP) — Sen. Ted Cruz opened the first major campaign of the 2016 presidential season Monday with a kickoff speech courting cultural conservatives and declaring that he will devote himself to "reigniting the promise of America."

HOUSTON (AP) — The University of Houston president suspended the Sigma Chi fraternity at the school following allegations of hazing that jeopardized students' health and safety.

University President Renu Khator said in a statement Tuesday that she's "shocked, dismayed and deeply disappointed" by the allegations.

The statement provides no details of what is alleged to have happened, but Khator says the university has suspended five students. She says if the allegations prove to be true, the five "will be subject to immediate disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion."

Khator describes hazing as "a criminal act" and a violation of university policy, for which consent is not a defense.

University police have turned over its findings to the Harris County District Attorney's Office, which will determine if criminal charges are necessary.